In today’s digital age, being well-versed in the legal aspects of electronic signing is crucial for businesses operating in Singapore. In the second instalment of our three-part series, we will discuss the legal framework surrounding electronic signing, including the Electronic Transactions Act (ETA) and its implications for your business. Keep an eye out for our third and final post, where we will examine the security features of electronic signing and showcase the advanced solutions offered by Netrust.

 

The Role of the Electronic Transactions Act (ETA) in Electronic Signing

Singapore’s Electronic Transactions Act (ETA) provides a legal foundation for electronic transactions, including electronic signing. The ETA grants legal recognition to electronic signatures, ensuring that they hold the same legal validity as traditional handwritten signatures, provided they meet certain criteria. This legal recognition instils confidence in businesses regarding the enforceability and admissibility of electronically signed documents in court.

 

Secure Electronic Signature Criteria

To be considered legally valid and secure under Singapore’s ETA, an electronic signature must fulfil the following requirements:

  • Unique association with the signer: The electronic signature should be exclusively connected to the signer, ensuring that it cannot be utilized by anyone else.
  • Reliable identification: The signature must reliably identify the signer and ensure the integrity of the signed document.
  • Sole control of the signer: The electronic signature should be generated using a method under the exclusive control of the signer, without the possibility of external tampering or manipulation.
  • Detection of subsequent alterations: The electronic signature must be attached to the document in such a manner that any changes made to the document after signing will be evident and invalidate the signature.
  • The certificate was issued by an accredited certification authority

 

Selecting an Accredited Digital Identity Provider

To guarantee legal compliance and trustworthiness, it is essential to choose a digital identity provider accredited by Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA). Accredited providers, like Netrust, have undergone a stringent evaluation process to ensure their services meet the highest standards of security, reliability, and compliance with local regulations.

 

Conclusion

Becoming familiar with the legal framework of electronic signing in Singapore is essential for businesses to ensure compliance and build trust with partners and clients. The Electronic Transactions Act (ETA) governs electronic signing, and selecting an accredited digital identity provider is crucial for maintaining legal validity. In the final post of our series, we will explore the security features of electronic signing and introduce Netrust’s advanced solutions for a seamless and secure electronic signing experience.

 

For more information on the implementation of digital signing in your organisation, email us at sales@netrust.net.

 

 

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